Italian train operator Italo plans to begin competing with Deutsche Bahn on major German routes, including Munich to Hamburg, starting in 2028. This expansion marks Italo’s entry into the German long-distance rail market. However, the move has raised concerns from German railway unions. Union representatives fear that Italo’s focus on high-traffic routes could lead to a reduction in service to smaller cities. They worry about a potential disconnection of sixteen cities from the national long-distance rail network. The potential impact on regional connectivity is a key point of contention as Italo develops its operational plans for Germany. Deutsche Bahn has not yet officially commented on the competitive challenge.